Why “Faster” Isn’t Always Better In Real Estate

How the Real Estate Process Protects Buyers and Sellers in Baltimore, Maryland

The real estate process exists for one primary reason: PROTECTION.

In today’s fast paced world, many buyers and sellers believe that purchasing or selling a home in should happen as quickly as possible. But real estate is one of the few transactions where rushing, skipping steps, or cutting corners can expose people to serious financial, legal, and even saftey risks.

When followed correctly, the real estate process protects buyers, sellers and everyone involved in the transaction. When it’s rushed or ignored, those protections disappear.

I’ve seen this firsthand while working with clients across Baltimore and through Maryland.

My Real Life Example From a Baltimore Real Estate Transaction

Several years ago, I represented a personal associate who was preparing to buy a home. For a few reasons, she was eager to move quickly. However, the early stages of the home buying process required imporatant front end work on her part. Nothing out of the ordinary, the standard documentation, lender verifications, and timely responses. She shared with me that she didnt have much time and found the process overwhelming.

I did everything I could to support her, making calls on her behalf, coordinating where possible, and providing guidance. Still, certain responsibilities required her direct involvement before I could ethically move forward.

Frustration followed.

She ultimately informed me that she found a broker who promised to “get it done faster” and that my services would need to be terminated.

It’s my innate reaction to not hold on to what wants to leave, especially when my integrity is involved, therefore I gracefully accepted the termination.

Several months later I received a call.

What Happens When the Process is Rushed

“ Giiiirl, I should have stayed with you. this transaction and house has been a nightmare.”

The transaction stretched on for months, she said. For reference, the average transaction time is 30-45 days.

The broker consistently asked for more and more deposit money. For reference, unless otherwise negotiated, the deposit amount is stated in the contract (usually 1% of the homes price) and it is not changed.

The home inspector intentionally overlooked safety and mechanical deficiencies. This came at the buyer’s expense very soon after purchase when she had to pay for repairs and damages. She later found out that the agent and inspector were friends who were “greasing each others palms”.

Some of the very steps this buyer wanted to bypass early on were the same protections missing when she needed them most.

Why the Real estate Process Matters in Maryland

Buying or selling a home in Maryland can absolutley be a smooth and successful experience with the right realtor and lender.

But here’s the part that’s overlooked:

The buyer’s or seller’s readiness and attention are the fuel that moves the transaction forward.

The real estate process works best when:

• Required documents are completed accurately and honestly

• Contract deadlines are respected

• Inspections follow Maryland safety and disclosure standards

• Communication remains timely and transparent

No professional realtor can eliminate required steps, and no ethical agent will attempt to.

No Cut Corners in Real Estate

I wear many hats in my life.

I’m Gods child.

I’m a wife.

A Mother.

A (baby) sister. :)

And I’m a Maryland realtor.

Whether I’m working with a first time home buyer in Baltimore, a seller elsewhere in Maryland, someone I know personally or a complete stranger that walked up to me in coffee shop, my standard never changes.

What is required of the client will always be required.

What is required of vendors that work with a client of mine will always be required.

There are no shortcuts.

No lapses in professionalism.

Not because I enjoy being rigid in this lane, but because this is the absolute best way to keep my buyers and sellers protected in real estate.

Real Estate Paperwork is Legal Protection

Buying or selling a home in Baltimore, or anywhere in Maryland, is a significant legal and financial investment.

Every document signed, or not signed, during a transaction can be used for you, to protect your interests…or against you, in a Maryland court of law.

Disclosures, Inspections, deposits, and timelines are not “just paperwork”. They exist to reduce risk, prevent disputes and protect consumers.

When real estate paperwork is rushed or ignored, the risk doesn’t disappear…it shifts directly to the buyer or seller.

My role as your Baltimore Realtor

A professional realtor’s role extends far beyond opening doors or “ closing deals in heels” 😑

I’m here to educate my clients on the actual Maryland real estate process, advocate for their best interests, coordinate ethically with lenders, inspectors etc. and protect my clients through proper documentation and disclosure.

Sometimes that means slowing things down. Sometimes that means I have to say no. And sometime it means losing a deal to protect a client’s future…and I’m always comfortable and prepare for that.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home in Baltimore or anywhere in Maryland and want a process that protects your interests every step, I’d be honored to help.